MEA Amplifier
for Upright Microscopes
Manual
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted without the express written
permission of Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH.
While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this document, the publisher
and the author assume no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting
from the use of information contained in this document or from the use of programs and
source code that may accompany it. In no event shall the publisher and the author be liable
for any loss of profit or any other commercial damage caused or alleged to have been caused
directly or indirectly by this document.
© 2012 Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH. All rights reserved.
Printed: 06. 11. 2012
Multi Channel Systems
MCS GmbH
Aspenhaustraße 21
72770 Reutlingen
Germany
Fon
+49-71 21-90 92 5 - 0
Fax
+49-71 21-90 92 5 -11
info@multichannelsystems.com
www.multichannelsystems.com
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Products that
are referred to in this document may be either trademarks and / or registered trademarks
of their respective holders and should be noted as such. The publisher and the author make
no claim to these trademark.
Table of Contents
Introduction
About this Manual
1
1
Important Information and Instructions
Operator's Obligations
Guarantee and Liability
Important Safety Advice
3
3
3
4
First Use of the MEA Amplifier
Welcome to the MEA Amplifier
Setting Up and Connecting the MEA Amplifier
5
5
6
First Tests and Tutorial
First Functional Tests
General Performance / Noise Level
7
7
7
Operating the MEA Amplifier
Signal Amplification and Filters
Temperature Control
Mounting the MEA Probe and Grounding the Bath
Stimulation
Service and Maintenance
9
9
10
11
13
13
Troubleshooting
About Troubleshooting
Noise on Single Electrodes
Unsteady Baseline
Artifacts on All Channels
Liquid Spilled onto Amplifier
Technical Support
15
15
15
16
17
18
18
Appendix
Technical Specifications
Pin and MEA Layout
MEA1060-Up
Heating Element
Test Model Probe
Contact Information
Ordering Information
19
19
19
21
21
22
22
23
Index
29
iii
1
Introduction
1.1
About this Manual
This manual comprises all important information about the first installation of the hardware
and software, and about the daily work with the instrument. It is assumed that you have already
a basic understanding of technical and software terms. No special skills are required to read this
manual.
If you are using the device for the first time, please read the important safety advice before
installing the hardware and software, where you will find important information about the
installation and first steps.
The printed manual and Help are basically the same, so it is up to you which one you will use.
The Help offers you the advantage of scrolling through the text in a non-linear fashion, picking
up all information you need, especially if you use the Index, and the Search function.. If you are
going to read larger text passages, however, you may prefer the printed manual.
The device and the software are part of an ongoing developmental process. Please understand
that the provided documentation is not always up to date. The latest information can be found
in the Help. Check also the MCS web site (www.multichannelsystems.com) for downloading
up-to-date manuals and Help files.
1
2
Important Information and Instructions
2.1
Operator's Obligations
The operator is obliged to allow only persons to work on the device, who

are familiar with the safety at work and accident prevention regulations and have been
instructed how to use the device;

are professionally qualified or have specialist knowledge and training and have received
instruction in the use of the device;

have read and understood the chapter on safety and the warning instructions in this manual
and confirmed this with their signature.
It must be monitored at regular intervals that the operating personnel are working safely.
Personnel still undergoing training may only work on the device under the supervision
of an experienced person.
2.2
Guarantee and Liability
The General conditions of sale and delivery of Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH always apply.
The operator will receive these no later than on conclusion of the contract.
Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH makes no guarantee as to the accuracy of any and all tests
and data generated by the use of the device or the software. It is up to the user to use good
laboratory practice to establish the validity of his findings.
Guarantee and liability claims in the event of injury or material damage are excluded
when they are the result of one of the following.

Improper use of the device.

Improper installation, commissioning, operation or maintenance of the device.

Operating the device when the safety and protective devices are defective and/or inoperable.

Non-observance of the instructions in the manual with regard to transport, storage, installation,
commissioning, operation or maintenance of the device.

Unauthorized structural alterations to the device.

Unauthorized modifications to the system settings.

Inadequate monitoring of device components subject to wear.

Improperly executed and unauthorized repairs.

Unauthorized opening of the device or its components.

Catastrophic events due to the effect of foreign bodies or acts of God.
3
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
2.3
Important Safety Advice
Warning: Make sure to read the following advice prior to install or to use the device and the
software. If you do not fulfill all requirements stated below, this may lead to malfunctions or
breakage of connected hardware, or even fatal injuries.
Warning: Obey always the rules of local regulations and laws. Only qualified personnel should
be allowed to perform laboratory work. Work according to good laboratory practice to obtain
best results and to minimize risks.
The product has been built to the state of the art and in accordance with recognized safety
engineering rules. The device may only

be used for its intended purpose;

be used when in a perfect condition.

Improper use could lead to serious, even fatal injuries to the user or third parties and damage
to the device itself or other material damage.
Warning: The device and the software are not intended for medical uses and must not
be used on humans.
Malfunctions which could impair safety should be rectified immediately.
High Voltage
Electrical cords must be properly laid and installed. The length and quality of the cords must
be in accordance with local provisions.
Only qualified technicians may work on the electrical system. It is essential that the accident
prevention regulations and those of the employers' liability associations are observed.

Each time before starting up, make sure that the mains supply agrees with the specifications
of the product.

Check the power cord for damage each time the site is changed. Damaged power cords should
be replaced immediately and may never be reused.

Check the leads for damage. Damaged leads should be replaced immediately and may never
be reused.

Do not try to insert anything sharp or metallic into the vents or the case.

Liquids may cause short circuits or other damage. Keep the device and the power cords always
dry. Do not handle it with wet hands.
Requirements for the installation

Make sure that the device is not exposed to direct sunlight. Do not place anything on top of the
device, and do not place it on top of another heat producing device. Never cover the device, not
even partially, so that the air can circulate freely. Otherwise, the device may overheat.

Use and keep the device only in a dry environment. Fluids or damp air may damage or destroy the
device. Spilled liquid can damage or even completely destroy the electronics of the MEA amplifier.
Avoid it by all means.
Warning: The device must not get in contact with fluids! Spilled liquid can damage or even
completely destroy the electronics of the amplifier! This is eminently important when using
a perfusion system. Take care that the flow rates of the inlet and outlet flow match so that
flooding of the amplifier is efficiently prevented.
4
3
First Use of the MEA Amplifier
3.1
Welcome to the MEA Amplifier
Raw data from up to 60 electrodes of a microelectrode array (MEA) is amplified
by 60 channels of filter amplifiers that are built very small and compact using SMD
(Surface Mounted Devices) technology. The small-sized MEA amplifier combines the
interface to the MEA probe with the signal filtering and the amplification of
the signal. The compact design reduces line pick up and keeps the noise level down.
The MEA sensor is placed directly into the small-sized MEA amplifier. When the amplifier
is closed, the contact pins in the lid of the amplifier are pressed onto the MEA contact pads.
The very close location of the amplifier to the MEA sensor is very favorable concerning a high
signal-to-noise ratio.
MEA amplifiers can be ordered with different gain and bandwidth configurations by the user's
choice. For example, typical pass bands would be 1 to 300 Hz for recording field potentials and
300 to 3000 Hz for recording action potentials. It is also possible to use a broadband amplifier and
filter the data with the digital filter of the free MC_Rack program. Gain settings from 100 to 5000
are possible.
The amplifier is connected to the data acquisition computer via a single 68-pin MCS standard
cable. The analog output signals of the MEA amplifier are then acquired and digitized by the
MC_Card (MEA-System) or your custom data acquisition system.
MEA amplifiers have an integrated heating system for controlling the MEA's temperature.
The desired temperature can be easily programmed with a temperature controller. You will not
need an incubator during recording all environmental conditions are reliably controlled directly
in the MEA dish.
You can then simply ground bad or unwanted electrodes by toggling small switches on the
amplifier. You can also connect a stimulus generator to any electrode(s) for stimulation.
Amplifier inputs are grounded during stimulation to prevent a saturation of the amplifier.
5
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
3.2
Setting Up and Connecting the MEA Amplifier
Warning: Spilled liquid can damage or even completely destroy the electronics of the MEA
amplifier. Please be extremely careful when setting up your perfusion system and when starting
the perfusion. Take care that the flow rates of the inlet and outlet flow match so that flooding
of the amplifier is efficiently prevented.
Note: The housing of the MEA amplifiers was optimized for Zeiss Axiovert microscopes. MEA
amplifiers are compatible to most standard microscopes if the following prerequisites are met.
This MEA amplifier type has been developed for standard upright microscopes with a rectangular
microscope table. The focal plane of the microscope has to be in a distance of 8 mm to the
microscope table.
Note: If you use a complete MEA-System, the MEA amplifier will usually be powered by the
isolated power supply (IPS10W) that is integrated into the data acquisition computer. The power
is distributed along the MCS 68-pin MCS high grade cable. If you use your MEA amplifiers
together with a MEA Switch, or if you use a custom data acquisition system without IPS10W,
you will need an external power supply for operating the amplifier(s). Please ask your local
retailer for more information on setup options.
Note: If you use an USB-ME-System you need an external power supply, for example a PS40W,
for operating the amplifier(s). Please ask your local retailer for more information on setup
options.
Using the MC_Card for data acquisition: Connect the MEA amplifier's output to the MC_Card
input labeled MC_Card Ch. 01–64 with a 68-pin MCS standard cable. If you have a MEA120-System,
connect the second MEA amplifier with a 68-pin MCS standard cable to the input for channels
65–128 labeled MC_CX64 Ch. 65–128. If you are using a MEA Switch, connect the amplifiers to
the MEA Switch inputs, and the MEA Switch outputs to the MC_Card.
Using an USB-ME data acquisition device: Connect the MEA amplifier's output to the USB-ME
input via 68-pin MCS standard cable. If you are using a MEA Switch, connect the amplifiers to
the MEA Switch inputs, and the MEA Switch outputs to the USB-ME device.
1. Place the MEA amplifier onto the microscope table.
2. Connect the internal heating element to a Temperature Controller's output channel
(D-Sub9 socket) with the black cable. (The Temperature Controller is not part of the standard
scope of delivery, but is included in the MEA-System or USB-ME-System, and can also be ordered
separately.) Do not connect the black heating element cable to the data acquisition computer.
3. You should use a Faraday cage or appropriate materials, for example aluminum foil,
for shielding the amplifier. The shielding should be connected to the amplifier's ground,
for example, to the screws of the cover.
Please see also the separate handout "MEA Microelectrode Systems" for setup suggestions
with detailed illustrations.
6
4
First Tests and Tutorial
4.1
First Functional Tests
Each MEA amplifier has been thoroughly tested at the factory site before delivery. However,
you may want to perform some tests yourself before you begin your experiment to exclude
any damage that might have occurred during transportation, or to fulfill your own guidelines,
for instance.
Some of the tests will also help you to get to know the basic functions of the hard- and software,
like a short tutorial. It will take only a few minutes time and can save you time and trouble in the
long run. Multi Channel Systems MCS GmbH recommends running these tests after the setup of
your system before you start your real experiments.
4.2
General Performance / Noise Level
Please use the provided model test probe to test the amplifier immediately after installation.
The test model probe is already mounted on the amplifier. It simulates a MEA with a resistor
of 220 k and a 1 nF capacitor between bath and electrode. Use MC_Rack or your custom data
acquisition program to record from the test model probe and to check the amplifier.
Setting up MC_Rack
Please refer to the MC_Rack manual for more information.
1. Start MC_Rack.
2. Open the file MEA_Display.rck on the installation volume. This basic rack contains the virtual
MC_Card instrument with appropriate gain settings and a continuous raw data display.
- OR - Set up the rack on your own:
1. Click Set Channel Layout on the Edit menu. Select a 2-dimensional (MEA) layout or
Configuration.
2. Add an USB-MEA device or the MC_Card to your virtual rack.
3. Click the Hardware tab of the USB-MEA device or the MC_Card and enter the amplifier gain
(standard: 1200).
4. On the Edit menu, click Add Data Display to add a raw data display to your virtual rack.
Starting the recording
1. On the Measurement menu, click Start to start the recording. You see the raw data streams
of all 60 channels in the typical MEA layout.
2. You may have to adjust the position and span of the axes until you can clearly
see the noise level.
You should see the baseline with a maximum noise level of +/- 8 μV.
7
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
The following screen shot shows a recording from a typical MEA amplifier with a test model probe
and a sampling rate of 25 kHz.
 Double-click a channel in the display to have a closer look.
8
5
Operating the MEA Amplifier
5.1
Signal Amplification and Filters
The standard MEA amplifier combines the probe interface with a band pass filter and the
signal amplification in one instrument.
Different filter settings are used for different applications to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio.
The pass band of the filter amplifier should be chosen according to the signal type. It is generally
useful to set the upper limit of the amplifier near the highest expected signal frequency, but also
at a safe distance to make sure that the full gain is used for signal amplification.
For slow signals like field potentials, a bandwidth of 1 to 300 Hz is appropriate. If you like to
record fast signals like spikes, a pass band of 300 Hz to 3 kHz is suitable. Cardiac signals have
fast and slow components; therefore, you usually need a wider bandwidth of 1 Hz to 3 kHz.
Multi Channel Systems provides custom amplifiers with a bandwidth of your choice, from 0.1 Hz
to 10 kHz. Please note that it is often useful to acquire the data with a broadband amplifier and
use the digital filter of the free MC_Rack program to change the pass band and filter the raw
data. This way, you are much more flexible in designing your experiments. As a further
advantage, you can see the original (not filtered) data as well. This is especially important because
all filters are known to distort signals. On the other hand, you may need a higher sampling rate to
avoid aliasing, and you will have a lower signal to noise ratio.
The standard gain of a MEA amplifier is 1200 (1100 in case of a MEA amplifier with blanking
circuit), which is fine for most applications, but MCS can also provide amplifiers with a gain of
your choice (from 100 to 5000) as well. For large signals (for example, from whole-heart
preparations), you need a lower gain to prevent a saturation of the amplifier. Please note that
the gain is a fixed hardware property; and that you cannot change the gain of the amplifier by
software controls. For more information on the technical specifications of your amplifier, please
see the separate data sheet that is delivered with each amplifier.
Please note that the ratio of the output signal to the input signal, that is, the gain, is not
a fixed parameter for the complete bandwidth. The gain that was specified for the amplifier,
for example, 1200, is not fully reached at the borders of the amplifier's pass band. The general
rule is, that at the lower and upper limit of the frequency band, the gain is
, that is
approximately 70 %, of the full gain. Therefore, you should use a bandwidth that is at a safe
distance of the signals of interest. Outside the pass band, the gain decreases with the frequency
and finally approaches zero.
The following illustration shows a typical frequency band of the MEA amplifier with standard
gain and bandwidth (in blue). Output signal amplitudes were divided by the input signal
amplitude and the resulting gain was plotted versus the input signal frequency on a logarithmic
scale. A straight line at approximately 70 % of the specified gain intersects the plotted curve at
the lower and upper limit of the pass band. The low-pass filter property of the combined
MEA1060 amplifier and MC_Card (in black) is only slightly different.
For information on the gain and filters of the MC_Card data acquisition system, please see
the ME- / MEA-System Manual. For more information on gain and filters in general, please
refer to standard literature or contact your local retailer.
9
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
If you use a MEA-System, the isolated power supply IPS10W that is integrated in the data
acquisition computer supplies the power for operating the MEA amplifier. The power is
distributed along the MCS high grade cable. Please consider that the amplifier can only operate
properly if the supply voltage and current specifications are fulfilled, especially if you use a custom
power supply. See also the Technical Specifications and the Troubleshooting section.
5.2
Temperature Control
The biological sample is cultured directly on the MEA. You can record without needing an
incubator, because a heating element is integrated into the amplifier and the perfusion cannula
and are both controlled by a Temperature Controller (Temperature Controller and perfusion
cannula with heating element and sensor are either included in the MEA-System or can be
ordered separately). You have several options regarding the culture chamber, such as a
semipermeable seal that guarantees stable environmental conditions.
For using the integrated heating element of the MEA amplifier, connect it with the black
cable to the Temperature Controller. The heating is active, but the cooling is passive.
Therefore, the minimum temperature is limited by the room temperature. Please refer
to the Temperature Controller Manual for more information.
Important: Please make sure that you have selected the appropriate PID coefficients
for the amplifier type (for inverted or upright microscopes) in use.
10
Operating the MEA Amplifier
5.3
Mounting the MEA Probe and Grounding the Bath
Warning: Do not use too much force. Otherwise you could damage the delicate MEA chip
or the contact pins of the amplifier.
1. Place the MEA amplifier as shown on the photo. Click “Change MEA” in MEA_Select program.
Open the lid of the MEA amplifier.
2. Place the MEA probe inside.
Important: MEA chips are not symmetrical! That is, why the writing (NMI) on the MEA chip
should be on the right side and the reference electrode – if available – should be on the left side.
Otherwise, the MEA layout will not match with the pin layout of the channel map in MC_Rack.
This is very important for MEAs with internal reference electrode, for example.
3. Replace the lid and close it carefully. Do not unpress the “Change MEA” button until you
have grounded the bath and replaced the shielding, that is, until the setup has been
completely finished.
Warning: Spilled liquid can damage or even completely destroy the electronics of the MEA
amplifier. Please be careful when setting up your perfusion system and when starting the
perfusion. Take care that the flow rates of the inlet and outlet flow match so that flooding
of the amplifier is efficiently prevented.
11
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
Grounding the bath
You can ground the bath with a plain silver wire or with an Ag/AgCl pellet. Only the Ag/AgCl
electrode provides a stable intrinsic potential. In practice, the plain silver wire will be good
for 90 % of applications. If you do not achieve satisfying results with the plain silver wire,
try an Ag/AgCl electrode.
If you use MEAs with internal reference electrode, you can use the reference electrode for
grounding the bath. This has the advantage that you can keep the culture chamber closed
and sterile (for example, with MEA-MEM semipermeable membranes).
Important: If you use a MEA with internal reference electrode, you have to connect pin 15
to ground with the provided cable. Setting electrode 15 to ground in the MEA_Select program
is not sufficient for grounding the bath.
1. Attach the provided silver wire or pellet to the amplifier's ground and place it into the bath,
near the rim of the culture chamber. If you use a MEA with internal reference electrode,
connect the ground to the reference electrode socket (pin 15) with the provided connector.
Make sure that the orientation of the MEA inside the amplifier is appropriate.
2. Replace the shielding.
12
Operating the MEA Amplifier
5.4
Stimulation
Recommended stimulus protocols for MEA electrodes
MCS recommends to use biphasic pulses only, with negative phase first. The duration of the
phases should be 100 μs each and the amplitude 100 mV to 3000 mV. (See also Potter, S. M.,
Wagenaar, D. A. and DeMarse, T. B. (2005). Closing the Loop: Stimulation Feedback Systems
for Embodied MEA Cultures. Advances in Network Electrophysiology Using Multi-Electrode
Arrays. M. Taketani and M. Baudry, Springer; Wagenaar, D. A., Madhavan, R., Pine, J. and
Potter, S. M. (2005). "Controlling bursting in cortical cultures with closed-loop multi-electrode
stimulation." J Neurosci 25(3): 680-8.)
Stimulation with MEA electrodes
You can use any MEA electrode for stimulation. Simply connect the output channel(s) of your
stimulus generator to the input socket(s) of any desired electrode(s).
You should use the slide switches for disconnecting stimulating electrodes from the amplifier.
5.5
Service and Maintenance
You should clean the contact pins of the amplifier with a soft tissue and pure (100 %) alcohol
from time to time, especially if you have problems with the noise level.
13
6
Troubleshooting
6.1
About Troubleshooting
The following hints are provided to solve special problems that have been reported by users.
Most problems occur seldom and only under specific circumstances. Please check the mentioned
possible causes carefully when you have any trouble with the product. In most cases, it is only
a minor problem that can be easily avoided or solved.
If the problem persists, please contact your local retailer. The highly qualified staff will be glad
to help you. Please inform your local retailer as well, if other problems that are not mentioned
in this documentation occur, even if you have solved the problem on your own. This helps other
users, and it helps MCS to optimize the instrument and the documentation.
Please pay attention to the safety and service information (chapter "Important Safety Advice"
and "Service and Maintenance" in the Manual / Help). Multi Channel Systems has put all effort
into making the product fully stable and reliable, but like all high-performance products,
it has to be handled with care.
6.2
Noise on Single Electrodes
The noise level on single electrodes is significantly higher than +/- 8 μV.
Possible causes:
?
The electrode or the contact pin of the amplifier may be defective. To test this, do the following.
1. Open the amplifier and turn the MEA by 90 degrees.
2. Close the amplifier again and start the recording.
If the same electrode in the MEA layout is affected, the amplifier's contact is not ok. If another
electrode is now affected and the previously affected electrode is ok now, the MEA electrode
is not ok, but the amplifier is fine.
- OR Use the test model probe to test the amplifier.
MEA electrode is defective
See also the MEA Manual.
Possible causes:
?
The contact pads are contaminated.
 Clean the contact pads carefully with a swab and pure (100 %) alcohol.
?
The contact pads or the electrodes are damaged.
 Use a new MEA. Try to handle and clean the MEA more carefully next time.
15
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
Contact pin is defective
Possible causes:
?
The contact pins are contaminated.
 Clean the contact pins carefully with a smooth and clean tissue and pure (100 %) alcohol.
?
The contact pins are damaged.
 Replace the contact pins carefully. Please see the Spare Parts list under "Ordering Information".
Try to handle and clean the contact pins more carefully next time.
6.3
Unsteady Baseline
The baseline is unstable, signals are jumping or drifting.
Possible causes:
?
Bath electrode is not connected to ground.
 Connect the internal or external bath electrode to one of the ground inputs of the amplifier
as described in "Mounting the MEA Probe".
?
AgCl bath electrode needs is not well-chlorided.
 Rechloride the electrode or use a new one.
?
The MEA has an internal reference electrode and pin 15 is connected to ground appropriately,
but the orientation of the MEA inside the amplifier is wrong. In this case, the wrong (standard
size for recording) electrode is connected to ground, but not the reference electrode.
 Open the amplifier and check the orientation of the MEA and the reference electrodes described
in "Mounting the MEA Probe".
16
Troubleshooting
6.4
Artifacts on All Channels
You see strange artifacts on all channels. This behavior can be caused by an insufficient supply
power. Please see the Technical Specifications section. If the voltage drops beyond a critical level,
the amplifier cannot operate properly, resulting in artifacts or in a saturation of the amplifier.
Possible causes:
?
The cable connecting the amplifier to the power supply, that is, the MCS high grade cable
leading from the amplifier to the data acquisition computer if you have a MEA-System,
is too long. The applied voltage is not high enough for operating the amplifier.
 Use a shorter cable, if possible, or try another power supply with a higher output power.
MCS high grade cables with a total length of up to 3 m and the isolated power supply IPS10W
are recommended for the MEA-System.
?
You have connected too many amplifiers to your power supply. The isolated power supply IPS10W
that is integrated in your data acquisition computer if you use a MEA-System can supply power
for up to three standard MEA amplifiers .
 Use an additional power supply for operating the amplifiers or reduce the number of amplifiers.
?
The supply power is too low for operating the amplifier. This is especially likely if you use a custom
power supply.
 Contact your local retailer, describe the problem and your hardware configuration, and ask for
a power supply that is suitable for your amplifier.
17
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
6.5
Liquid Spilled onto Amplifier
Warning: Spilled liquid can damage or even completely destroy the electronics
of the MEA amplifier. Avoid it by all means.
Of course it is best to completely avoid this situation and consider the following instructions
as an "emergency measurement" only. Even with this measurement, a severe damage to the
instrument cannot be excluded. It is very important that the amplifier is not connected or used
again before repair to avoid further damage caused by corrosion. Even if the initial damage
is negligible, the additional damage inflicted by corrosion over a longer period of time can
completely destroy the electronics.
1. Immediately remove the amplifier from the power supply, that is, unplug the amplifier.
Do not connect or use it again before repair.
2. Contact your local retailer and send the amplifier to Multi Channel Systems for cleaning and
repair. Multi Channel Systems will check the device and prepare a quote for you, depending
on the work and material costs needed for repair.
6.6
Technical Support
Please read the Troubleshooting part of the Manual / Help first. Most problems are caused by
minor handling errors. Contact your local retailer immediately if the cause of trouble remains
unclear. Please understand that information on your hardware and software configuration is
necessary to analyze and finally solve the problem you encounter.
Important: If you need to send the amplifier back to the manufacturer for repair, use only
the original case for packaging to avoid further damage inflicted during the shipment.
Please keep information on the following at hand

Description of the error and of the context in which the error occurred. Try to remember
all steps you had performed immediately before the error occurred. The more information
on the actual situation you can provide, the easier it is to track the problem.

The serial number of the device. You will find it on the device.

Description of the data acquisition system.

The operating system and service pack number on the connected computer.

The hardware configuration (Isolated Power Supply IPS10W, microprocessor, frequency,
main memory, hard disk) of the connected computer. This information is especially important
if you have modified the computer or installed new hard- or software recently.

Other connected hardware.
18
7
Appendix
7.1
Technical Specifications
7.1.1 Pin and MEA Layout
The layout of standard MEA electrodes follows the scheme of a standard grid: The first digit
is the column number, and the second digit is the row number. For example, electrode 23
is positioned in the third row of the second column. The numbering follows the standard
order from left to right, and from top to bottom.
MEAs are not symmetrical, please pay attention to the recommended orientation
of the MEA chip inside the amplifier: The writing NMI should be on the right side.
The illustration shows the standard pin layout of the socket on the amplifier.
The list below shows the assignment of the electrodes to the pins of the socket.
Pin 1 is the ground of the power supply, pin 2 is the ground of the signal, that is,
where the signal is referred to. Both pins are already internally connected inside
the amplifier.
Channels A1 to A4 are the four additional analog inputs of the MC_Card that are
not used by the MEA amplifier. You can access channels A1 to A3 via the BNC sockets
labeled Analog IN on the rear side of the data acquisition computer of the MEA-System
(see also MEA-System Manual).
19
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
Assignment pin to electrode
68-Pin socket pin
MEA electrode
68-Pin socket pin
MEA electrode
3
47
33
52
4
48
34
51
5
46
35
53
6
45
36
54
7
38
37
61
8
37
38
62
9
28
39
71
10
36
40
63
11
27
41
72
12
17
42
82
13
26
43
73
14
16
44
83
15
35
45
64
16
25
46
74
17
15
47
84
18
14
48
85
19
24
49
75
20
34
50
65
21
13
51
86
22
23
52
76
23
12
53
87
24
22
54
77
25
33
55
66
26
21
56
78
27
32
57
67
28
31
58
68
29
44
59
55
30
43
60
56
31
41
61
58
32
42
62
57
20
Appendix
7.1.2 MEA1060-Up
Operating temperature
10 °C to 50 °C
Storage temperature
0 °C to 50 °C
Dimensions (W x D x H)
165 mm x 165 mm x 14.5 mm (19 mm with sockets)
Weight
600 g
Supply voltage (external power supply)
± 6 VDC to ± 9 VDC
Supply current
max. 220 mA, typically ± 150 mA
Number of stimulus input channels
60
Maximum recommended stimulus input
voltage
±5V
Number of analog input channels
60
Input voltage
-4 mV to 4 mV (with respect to the standard gain of
1200)
Input impedance
1011  parallel to 10 pF
Input noise
< 800 nVRMS
Noise density
en =
Number of analog output channels
60
Output voltage
±5V
Output current
10 mA
Output impedance
300 
Bandwidth
1 Hz to 3000 Hz (standard), 1 Hz to 5000 Hz (custom)
Gain
1200 (standard), 500 to 5000 (custom)
Microscope compatibility
Upright microscopes
Distance focal plane to microscope table
8 mm
7.1.3 Heating Element
The heating element is mounted onto the bottom side of the base plate of the MEA1060
amplifier. It is used for keeping the temperature in the MEA culture chamber stable during
recordings.
Input voltage
max 10 V
Input current
max 2 A
Temperature sensor
PT 100
Resistance
15 ± 2 
Heating temperature
Ambient temperature (min 10 °C) to 50 °C
Accuracy
0.1 °C (in the range of 20 °C to 40 °C)
Recovery time
0.5 min to 2 min
Calibration constant
T = c * (R R0) / R0 for c = 259.7 °C
Thermal resistance
6 °C / Watt
Typical time constant
50 s
21
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
Pin layout
7.1.4 Test Model Probe
The provided test model probe simulates a MEA with a resistor of 220 k and a 1 nF capacitor
between bath and electrode, for all 60 electrodes, and can be used for testing MEA amplifiers.
7.2
Contact Information
Local retailer
Please see the list of official MCS distributors on the MCS web site.
User forum
The Multi Channel Systems User Forum provides the opportunity for you to exchange your
experience or thoughts with other users worldwide.
Mailing list
If you have subscribed to the Mailing List, you will be automatically informed about new software
releases, upcoming events, and other news on the product line. You can subscribe to the list on
the contact form of the MCS web site.
www.multichannelsystems.com
22
Appendix
7.3
Ordering Information
Product information is subject to change without notice. Please contact your local retailer for
pricing and ordering information.
MEA amplifiers
Product
Product Number
Description
MEA amplifier for inverted
microscopes
MEA1060-Inv
MEA amplifier for upright microscopes
MEA1060-Up
Probe interface and 60 channel preand filter amplifier with custom gain
and bandwidth.
MEA amplifier with blanking circuit
for inverted microscopes
MEA1060-Inv-BC
MEA amplifier with blanking circuit
for upright microscopes
MEA1060-Up-BC
Probe interface and 60 channel preand filter amplifier with custom gain
and bandwidth. The blanking circuit
prevents the amplifier from getting
saturated and thus prevents stimulus
artifacts.
USB-MEA-Systems
Product
Product
Number
Description
USB-MEA-System for
upright microscopes
USBMEA240Up-4System
USB-MEA-System for
inverted microscopes
USBMEA240Inv-4System
MEA Workstation for recording and analyzing data from MEA
(microelectrode array) experiments. Data acquisition from up
to 240 MEA electrodes, 4 analog channels, 1 audio channel,
and 16 digital channels. Integrated analog-digital converter
board. The digitally converted electrode signals are
transmitted to any data acquisition computer via USB 2.0
(High Speed). Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with preinstalled software, 4 MEA1060-Up-Standard
or MEA1060-Inv-Standard amplifiers for upright or inverted
microscopes, 2 temperature controllers, power supply, and
accessories.
USB-MEA-System for
upright microscopes
with advanced
perfusion
USBMEA240Up-4System-E
USB-MEA-System for
inverted microscopes
with advanced
perfusion
USBMEA240Inv-4System-E
USB-MEA-System with
blanking circuit for
upright microscopes
USBMEA240Up-4-BCSystem
MEA Workstation for recording and analyzing data from MEA
(microelectrode array) experiments. Data acquisition from up
to 240 MEA electrodes, 4 analog channels, 1 audio channel,
and 16 digital channels. Integrated analog-digital converter
board. The digitally converted electrode signals are
transmitted to any data acquisition computer via USB 2.0
(High Speed). Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with preinstalled software, 4 MEA1060-Inv
amplifiers for inverted microscopes or 4 MEA1060-Up
amplifiers for upright microscopes, 4 temperature controllers,
4 perfusion cannulas with programmable fluid temperature,
power supply, and accessories.
MEA Workstation for recording and analyzing data from MEA
(micro-electrode array) experiments, featuring stimulus
artifact suppression (blanking), and software-selectable
recording and stimulating electrodes. Data acquisition from up
to 240 MEA electrodes, 4 analog channels, 1 audio channel,
and 16 digital channels. Integrated analog-digital converter
23
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
USB-MEA-System with
blanking circuit for
inverted microscopes
USBMEA240Inv-4-BCSystem
board. The digitally converted electrode signals are
transmitted to any data acquisition computer via USB 2.0
(High Speed). Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with preinstalled software, 4 MEA1060-Inv-BC or
MEA1060-Up-BC amplifiers with blanking circuit for upright
and inverted microscopes, 2 temperature controller, power
supply, and accessories.
USB-MEA-System with
blanking circuit for
upright microscopes
with advanced
perfusion
USBMEA240Up-4-BCSystem-E
USB-MEA-System with
blanking circuit for
inverted microscopes
with advanced
perfusion
USBMEA240Inv-4-BCSystem-E
MEA Workstation for recording and analyzing data from MEA
(microelectrode array) experiments, featuring stimulus artifact
suppression (blanking), and software-selectable recording and
stimulating electrodes. Data acquisition from up to 240 MEA
electrodes, 4 analog channels, 1 audio channel, and 16 digital
channels. Integrated analog-digital converter board. The
digitally converted electrode signals are transmitted to any
data acquisition computer via USB 2.0 (High Speed). Complete
with 5 MEAs, data acquisition computer with preinstalled
software, 4 MEA1060-Inv-BC amplifiers with blanking circuit
for inverted microscopes or 4 MEA1060-Inv-BC amplifiers with
blanking circuit for upright microscopes,
4 temperature controllers, 4 perfusion cannulas with
programmable fluid temperature, power supply, and
accessories.
USB-MEA256-System
with integrated data
acquisition and filter
amplifier
USBMEA256System
256-channel recording system with integrated data acquisition
from 256MEAs. 252 recording channels, and filter
amplification. 4 additional analog and 1 digital I/O port.
Complete with data acquisition computer, software package
and accessories. USB 2.0 High Speed data transfer with a
sampling rate of up to 40 kHz per channel.
USB-MEA256-System
with integrated data
acquisition and filter
amplifier, and
advanced perfusion
USBMEA256System-E
256-channel recording system with integrated data acquisition
from 256MEAs.252 recording channels,
4 additional analog and 1 digital I/O port. Complete with data
acquisition computer, software package and accessories. USB
2.0 High Speed data transfer with a sampling rate of up to 40
kHz per channel, temperature controller and perfusion
cannula.
USB-MEA32-System
with integrated data
acquisition, filter
amplifier, and
stimulus generator
USBMEA32STIM4System
32-channel recording system with integrated data acquisition
from perforated MEA-32S12-Lx. 32 recording channels, 12
stimulation channels, filter amplification and 4-channel
current stimulus generator STG, perfusion cannula PH01 and
suction port for low pressure. Complete with data acquisition
computer, software package and accessories. USB 2.0 High
Speed data transfer with a sampling rate of up to 50 kHz per
channel.
24
Appendix
Accessories
Product
Product
Number
Description
Adapter for MEAs with 8
special electrodes for
stimulation
MEA-STIMAdapter
For use with MEAs 200/30-Ti-stim or 200/30-ITO-stim,
and MEA1060-Inv amplifier.
Holder with M3 threads
MPM3
For fixing tools with M3 threads next to the MEA
1-Channel temperature
controller
TC01
2-Channel temperature
controller
TC02
PID based technology, set-point temperature reached
fast within 30 s to 5 minutes, control temperature range
from ambient temperature to +50 °C
Perfusion cannula with
programmable fluid
temperature
PH01
Temperature can be programmed with the temperature
controller TC01 or TC02
Signal divider for MEASystems
SD-MEA
Placed between a MEA1060 amplifier and MC_Card,
permits to select any channel, does not interfere with
the data acquisition, for example, for connecting an
oscilloscope or other devices to single channels
Test Model Probe for
MEA1060 amplifiers
Test-MEA
Test model probe with CB-GND cable (for ground
connection). For all MEA1060 amplifiers.
Signal Generator for
MEA1060 amplifiers
MEA-SG
Signal generator for MEA-Systems: Can be placed in
MEA1060 amplifier. Simulates 12 different types of sine
curves and biological signals.
Signal Generator for USBMEA256-System
256MEA-SG
Signal generator for USB-MEA256-Systems: Can be
placed in USB-MEA256 amplifier. Simulates 12 different
types of sine curves and biological signals.
MEA Switch
Product
Product
Number
Description
MEA Switch for
4 amplifiers
MEAS4/2
MEA Switch for
2 amplifiers
MEAS2/1
The MEA Switch allows you to acquire data from 60 single channels
from two MEA1060 amplifiers. If you have a 128-channel MC_Card
(MEA 120 System), you can even pick 128 channels in total from two
MEA pairs with the MEA Switch for four amplifiers MEAS4/2. The
selected channels are combined to one Electrode Raw Data stream
that is delivered to MC_Card by a 68-pin MCS high grade Cable.
Stimulus generators
Product
Product
Number
Description
2-Channel stimulus generator
STG4002
4-Channel stimulus generator
STG4004
8-Channel stimulus generator
STG4008
General-purpose stimulus generators for current and
voltage-driven electrical stimulation, 4000 series, with
integrated stimulus isolation unit for each output
channel. Operating in Download and Streaming mode
(continuous downstreaming of pulses from connected
computer). MC_Stimulus II program with advanced
features.
25
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
Spare Parts
Product
Product
Number
Description
Heating element with 8 mm bore
hole
HE-Inv-8
Heating element with 12 mm bore
hole
HE-Inv-12
Heating element with 23 mm bore
hole
HE-Inv-23
For MEA1060-Inv/MEA1060-Inv-BC amplifier.
Available with bore holes in different sizes,
for using smaller or larger microscope
objectives. The smallest size has the best
temperature controlling properties.
Heating element
HE-Up
For MEA1060-Up/MEA1060-Up-BC amplifier
Cable assembly
CA
For HE-Inv or HE-Up
0.5 m 68-Pin MCS Standard cable
C68x0.5M
For MEA- or ME-Systems
1 m 68-pin MCS Standard cable
C68x1M
3 m 68-Pin MCS Standard cable
C68x3M
Ag/AgCl pellet
P1060-Inv
For MEA1060-Inv/MEA1060-Inv-BC amplifier
Ag/AgCl pellet
P1060-Up
For MEA1060-Up/MEA1060-Up-BC amplifier
Ag wire
W1060-Inv
For MEA1060-Inv/MEA1060-Inv-BC amplifier
Ag wire
W1060-Up
For MEA1060-Up/MEA1060-Up-BC amplifier
Solder lug
SL1060-Inv
For MEA1060-Inv/MEA1060-Inv-BC amplifier
Gold spring contacts
GSC1060-Inv
For MEA1060-Inv/MEA1060-Inv-BC amplifier
Gold spring contacts
GSC1060-Up
For MEA1060-Up/MEA1060-Up-BC amplifier
Gold spring contact comb
GSCC1060-Up
For MEA1060-Up/MEA1060-Up-BC amplifier
3-Pole cable (from STG to
MEA1060)
C3P
With ground, not necessary for MEA1060BC
amplifiers
Red single pole cable (from STG
to MEA1060)
CR
Black single pole cable (from STG
to MEA1060)
CB
26
Appendix
MEA-Systems
Product
Product
Number
Description
MEA recording system for
inverted microscopes,
60 electrode channels
MEA60-InvSystem
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, MEA1060-Inv
amplifier, TC01, power supply, and accessories
MEA recording system for
inverted microscopes,
60 electrode channels, 2
MEA amplifiers
MEA60-Inv-2System
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, 2 x MEA1060-Inv
amplifier, MEAS2/1, TC02, power supply, and
accessories
MEA recording system for
upright microscopes,
60 electrode channels
MEA60-UpSystem
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, MEA1060-Up
amplifier, TC01, power supply, and accessories
MEA recording system for
upright microscopes,
60 electrode channels
MEA60-Up-2System
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, 2 x MEA1060-Up
amplifier, MEAS2/1, TC02, power supply, and
accessories
MEA recording system for
inverted microscopes with
advanced perfusion,
60 electrode channels
MEA60-InvSystem-E
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, MEA1060-Inv
amplifier, TC02, PH01, power supply, and
accessories
MEA recording system for
inverted microscopes with
advanced perfusion,
60 electrode channels
MEA60-Inv-2System-E
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, 2 x MEA1060-Inv
amplifier, MEAS2/1, 2 x TC02, 2 x PH01, power
supply, and accessories
MEA recording system for
upright microscopes with
advanced perfusion,
60 electrode channels
MEA60-UpSystem-E
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, MEA1060-Up
amplifier, TC02, PH01, power supply, and
accessories
MEA recording system for
upright microscopes with
advanced perfusion,
60 electrode channels
MEA60-Up-2System-E
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, 2 x MEA1060-Up
amplifier, 2 x TC02, 2 x PH01, power supply,
and accessories
MEA recording system for
inverted microscopes,
120 electrode channels
MEA120-InvSystem
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, MEA1060-Inv
amplifier, TC02, power supply, and accessories
MEA recording system for
inverted microscopes,
120 electrode channels
MEA120-Inv-4System
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, 4 x MEA1060-Inv
amplifier, MEAS4/2, 2 x TC02, power supply,
and accessories
MEA recording system for
upright microscopes,
120 electrode channels
MEA120-UpSystem
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, MEA1060-Up
amplifier, TC02, power supply, and accessories
MEA recording system for
upright microscopes,
120 electrode channels
MEA120-Up-4System
Complete with 5 MEAs, data acquisition
computer with MC_Card, 4 x MEA1060-Up
amplifier, MEAS4/2, 2 x TC02, power supply,
and accessories
27
8
Index
29
MEA Amplifier for Upright Microscopes - Manual
30
MC_Card
A
Aliasing
9
B
Band
pass band.............................................9
Bandwidth
9
C
11
Configuration
13
Contact Information
6
22
Model Test Probe
22
Mounting
MEA Probe ........................................ 11
Noise
troubleshooting................................ 15
Noise Level
testing ................................................. 7
P
F
Faraday cage
MEA
layout ................................................ 19
mounting .......................................... 11
N
Change MEA
Connecting
6
6
Pin
layout ................................................ 19
Filters
bandwidth ...........................................9
S
Frequency
band.....................................................9
Signal
amplification....................................... 9
Signal-to-noise
G
Gain
9
10
I
IPS10W
M
13
T
H
Heating
Stimulation
9
6
Temperature
connecting the Temperature Controller
............................................................. 6
Temperature control
10
Trace List
13
31
32